Nonagenarians honored at Salisbury Estates in Pittsfield

Helen Maislan, a resident of Salisbury Estates in Pittsfield, is one of the residents honored on Thursday at the independent living community. At 96, she is what is called a nonagenarian, and credits her long life to staying active, playing tennis and golf.

Posted
Friday, October 11, 2013 5:58 am

By Dick Lindsay, Berkshire Eagle Staff

PITTSFIELD

Lillian Bernstein is closing in on 100 -- and she feels fortunate.

The nonagenarian gives three reasons for reaching 98 years of age and counting.

"I had some good parents, wonderful husband and never smoked," she said.

Bernstein was among the nine 90-something residents of Salisbury Estates on West Street who were honored Thursday for their longevity and life accomplishments totaling 836 years.

During a ceremony before family and friends, three younger residents at the independent living community read brief biographies of the seven women and two men. The presenters cited their varied careers and personal achievements spanning more than nine decades.

"I think when you get to be a nonagenarian, you've followed so many paths," said Barbara Shepetin, an event organizer.

By mid-century, reaching 90 years old could be more commonplace. According to the U.S Census Bureau, expect nine million Americans to have celebrated their 90th birthday by 2050. That's more than quadruple the 1.9 million nonagenarians counted in the 2010 federal census.

From hometowns as far away as Poland and Tennessee, the nine honorees also had nine different keys to a long and fruitful life.

Lee native, Al Ingegni Jr., credits his wife Connie of 68 years for making it to 91.

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